How to talk to your child about strangers

by
Ziba Kashef

Answers to common questions about strangers

"What if someone gets me?" Children this age can come up with all kinds of fantasy scenarios. Reassure your child that he's safe and return to the rules: "If someone approaches you, stay away from him, turn around, and go inside the house or school to get an adult." Tell your child that in the very unlikely case that a stranger does touch him, he should yell, "Help! This is not my daddy!"

"Why can't I walk home from Celeste's house by myself?" While some 8-year-olds may be perfectly capable of a solo trip around the block, parents have to gauge whether their own child is truly ready. If you're not comfortable green-lighting unaccompanied walks, Cohen suggests answering, "Because there are different rules depending on how old you are and where you live. It's safe for me to decide where I can go by myself because I'm an adult. But you're 8, so you have to follow clear rules."

What else you can do

Make sure your child knows where home is. Teach and then quiz him occasionally on your address and phone number.

Get your child an ID card. Many states issue ID cards for kids that include a physical description, photo, age, address, fingerprints, and parent contact information. If a child goes missing, parents can share the card with the police. A copy can also be filed with the police department. It's recommended that the photo be updated every year. Check with your local DMV about getting a card.

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